Palanqueta – Mexican Candy Recipe

Welcome to my recipe blog! Today I’m excited to share a sweet treat that originates from Mexico – palanqueta. This melt-in-your-mouth candy is made from just a few simple ingredients, but packs a delicious punch of flavor.

Palanqueta has a rich history in Mexican culture. It dates back centuries when nuns at Mexican convents would make these candies to sell as a means of supporting themselves. The name palanqueta comes from the Spanish word for “small slab” referring to how the candy is shaped. Traditionally, palanquetas are made from peanuts, coconut, brown sugar or piloncillo, and condensed milk. They have a smooth, fudgy texture almost like peanut brittle.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the easy steps for making homemade palanquetas. You’ll also learn a bit more about the history and cultural significance of this delightful Mexican candy. I can’t wait for you to give these palanquetas a try. The recipe is simple enough to make with the kids for a fun afternoon activity. Let’s get started!

What is Palanqueta?

Palanqueta is a Mexican confection made from various nuts and seeds. It’s similar to English peanut brittle, but it’s not the same.

Palanqueta candy can be purchased in a Latin American farmers markets or small street vendors. It’s a really sweet and pleasant thing dessert.

Mexican palanqueta is a candy made with processed sugar similar to brown sugar, water and Mexican peanuts. Once the ingredients have been mixed together, they are poured into a sheet pan lined with parchment paper to cool. The brittle is then broken into pieces and served.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy this brittle is sprinkled over ice cream or as an addition to rice pudding or any dessert that can be enhanced by the salty-sweet flavor of peanuts. You could also just eat it right out of the package; it’s so good!

You can find Mexican palanqueta in most Hispanic grocery stores or specialty food shops. It will last indefinitely in your pantry if stored properly in an airtight container.

Mexican palanqueta peanut brittle is a crunchy, slightly gooey, sweet and spicy snack that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without feeling too guilty. It’s also great to share with friends while chatting over a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients needed for Palanqueta

• 1-2 teaspoons butter
• ½ cup water
• 2 cups cane sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons lime juice
• 3 cups plain unroasted peanuts
• ½ cup popped amaranth
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Palanqueta Step by Step

1. Using parchment paper, line a baking dish. Alternatively, grease a large springform pan (or several smaller ones) with vegan butter. Place aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine water, cane sugar, and lime juice. Simmer over medium heat for 6-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
3. Cook, stirring constantly, until both the peanuts and the syrup are a golden-brown color, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in the amaranth and vanilla at this point.
4. Transfer the mixture into the baking dish or springform pans as quickly as possible. Press the mixture down evenly into a thin layer with a buttered spatula or spoon.
5. Allow for 5 minutes before cutting into bars while still warm. Slicing isn’t necessary if you’ve used small springform pans.
6. Allow the palanquetas to cool completely while still uncovered before serving or transferring to an airtight container for storage.

Recipe Video: How to Make Palanqueta

Palanqueta – Mexican Candy Recipe Endnote